April 15 is an important date throughout Major League Baseball, but in particular the Los Angeles Dodgers organization with the annual celebration and recognition of Jackie Robinson Day.
On top of various initiatives MLB has planned, the Dodgers privately are going to take a moment to honor Jackie Robinson. “I do know we’re planning on getting a big group of coaches, players, staff to go out to the statue out there,” manager Dave Roberts said.
“Pay our respects and homage to Jackie, do a little reflection on what he meant to us individually, as a club, as an industry and socially across the world. I’m looking forward to that.”
In years past the Dodgers have involved Robinson’s widow, Rachel, and their children, David and Sharon, for a pregame ceremony. They each were on hand when the Dodgers unveiled the Jackie Robinson statue on April 15, 2017, which marked the 70th anniversary of baseball’s color barrier being broken.
The statue was initially installed on the reserve level, but has since been move to the center field plaza as part of the Dodger Stadium renovation project. The team intends to soon unveil a Sandy Koufax statue in that same area of the ballpark.
Roberts has previously visited the bronze artwork on Jackie Robinson Day, and every year he’s been with the Dodgers for the commemorative date has been all the more touching. “It’s a wow moment for me,” he said of managers, players and coaches wearing No. 42. “It’s a moment of humility.
“I’ve worn the 42 in other uniforms and to wear it as a Major League ballplayer is certainly special. But to wear it with the Dodgers across the front of your chest is more magnified. I’m really looking forward to taking a few moments on Thursday to reflect and hopefully reach out to Rachel and Sharon to give my love to.”
How MLB will celebrate Jackie Robinson Day
In addition to uniformed personnel wearing No. 42, a logo will appear on jersey sleeves in team-specific font and colors along with a patch on the New Era caps. The Players Alliance designed special batting practice t-shirts that will also be worn by players.
Additionally, MLB Network produced a “Thank You, Jackie” video that will be played in all ballparks to highlight the impact Robinson made as an athlete and champion of social and racial equality.
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